Does the 2013 Lexus RX 350 require premium gas?
No. The 2013 RX 350 is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87; premium fuel is not required.
Fuel requirements for the 2013 RX 350
The RX 350, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FE), is designed to operate on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 (often labeled as Regular). Premium gasoline (91–93 octane) is not required for normal daily driving, according to the vehicle’s recommended fuel specifications. In regions where ethanol-blended fuels are common, the RX 350 is compatible with E10 (gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol).
Fuel options explained
Before listing fuel options, here are the key points about octane and compatibility for the RX 350:
- Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) is the recommended baseline for daily driving.
- Premium gasoline (91–93 octane) is not required; using it does not guarantee notable performance or efficiency gains for normal use.
- Fuel containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is typically compatible; verify local fuel specifications if you’re in a region with different blends.
In practice, sticking with regular 87 octane is usually the simplest, most economical choice for the RX 350.
What to do in special conditions
Some drivers report occasional engine pinging or knocking under hot weather or high-load conditions. While premium fuel can sometimes mitigate knocking, the manufacturer’s guidance for the 2013 RX 350 does not require premium for standard operation. If you experience knocking, ensure proper maintenance and consider consulting a technician or trying premium to see if it provides a noticeable difference in your environment.
Maintenance and fuel considerations
Other fuel-related considerations include using high-quality gasoline, keeping the fuel system clean, and following the schedule in your owner's manual. If you have persistent performance concerns, a licensed Lexus technician can review your fuel system and engine timing to identify underlying issues.
Summary
Bottom line: The 2013 Lexus RX 350 does not require premium gas. Regular unleaded fuel with 87 octane is suitable for everyday driving, with premium being optional and unlikely to yield significant benefits under typical conditions. Ensure your fuel is compatible with local blends (such as E10 where applicable) and follow the maintenance guidance in your owner's manual.
